How do you prepare ornamental grasses for winter in Oklahoma?
by
Tink Landrum
I have several different types of ornamental grasses, including purple fountain grass and cotton candy grass. I also have elephant ears. How do I prepare these for winter in central Oklahoma?
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Unless the plant becomes too shabby over winter, trimming back the dead stems of cool season ornamental grass can wait until the first balmy, late winter or very early spring day. As soon as any snow melts and the ground begins to thaw, cool season grasses should be cut back. We put a rope tied tightly to hold them in a clump, around our huge grasses, putting it about 12 inches above roots. Then we use a chainsaw to trim them right below the rope and just haul the cut grass away to burn. Having the rope attached helps keep the mess at a minimum. Some people leave them uncut through the winter, especially if not much snowfall. They like the look of them blowing in the wind, even if it is cold wind.
Chances are purple fountain grass will not survive winter,it really is considered a annual grass,Fountain grass can be cut down now or you can wait for the early spring before the new growth starts,Elephant ears need to be dug up ,dries and stored in sphagnum moss in a paper bag in a cool place
The Elephant Ears should be dug for the winter, placed in a cardboard box or brown sack in a dark place, like a basement or closet. Replant in the Spring.